Pregnant women diagnosed with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) face heightened risks of various pregnancy-related complications, including gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. A recent study conducted in Turkey sheds light on the potential consequences for both mothers and newborns affected by this condition.
Published in the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the study underscores the importance of close monitoring and management of ICP to mitigate adverse outcomes, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and preterm birth.
ICP, characterized by impaired bile flow from the liver into the intestines, is the most common liver disorder specific to pregnancy. Symptoms often include severe itching and typically manifest in the later stages of pregnancy when hormonal changes are at their peak.
The study, conducted at the Buca Seyf Demirsoy Training and Research Hospital in Izmir, Turkey, analyzed data from 1,686 pregnant women who gave birth between January 2018 and March 2022, of whom 54 (3.2%) were diagnosed with ICP.
Women with ICP were found to be older, with higher pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and a higher prevalence of assisted reproductive technology use compared to those without ICP. Additionally, a significantly higher proportion of women with ICP experienced complications such as preeclampsia and GDM.
Babies born to mothers with ICP were more likely to be born prematurely, with lower birth weights, and to exhibit signs of reduced oxygen levels in the blood. They also had higher rates of neonatal intensive care admission.
Statistical analyses revealed that ICP was a significant risk factor for both preeclampsia and GDM, highlighting the need for heightened vigilance and management strategies in affected pregnancies.
While effective management during pregnancy can mitigate some risks associated with ICP, the study emphasizes the importance of ongoing research to better understand the underlying mechanisms and optimize treatment approaches.
Despite the study’s limitations, such as the lack of analysis on the relationship between bile acid levels and the risk of GDM or preeclampsia, its findings underscore the critical importance of early detection and comprehensive management of ICP to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mothers and newborns.
